A decades-long tradition continued Feb. 26 in Atlanta as Georgia 4-H’ers turned the halls of the Georgia Capitol green and experienced the civic process in real time. Elected officials welcomed more than 700 youth, staff, volunteers, and supporters to celebrate the widespread positive impact of the 4-H program.

State Sen. Larry Walker III and Georgia Rep. Rick Jasperse served as legislative hosts for county 4-H groups as they toured the Capitol. 4-H leaders arranged direct meetings with senators and representatives from their districts, many of whom are 4-H alumni, parents and supporters.

Government in action

Civic engagement and leadership make up one of three Georgia 4-H focus areas for programming, empowering 4-H’ers to become engaged citizens and develop life skills, positive relationships and community awareness. A partnership with Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation and the Georgia 4-H Foundation provided support for this unique event.

“This event provides an extraordinary opportunity for a two-way dialogue about civic engagement,” said Melanie Biersmith, Georgia 4-H state leader. “Meetings and interactions between 4-H’ers and elected officials allow young people to learn about the legislative process, share appreciation for 4-H support and highlight the impacts of 4-H participation.”

Georgia 4-H Day at the Capitol culminated with a luncheon in the Georgia Freight Depot to celebrate 4-H and express appreciation to lawmakers and supporters. State Sen. Russ Goodman provided 4-H’ers with encouragement and motivation to become the next generation of leaders. Rep. Jasperse acknowledged a group of 4-H honorees who have received state and national recognition for their accomplishments over the past year.

Investing in the future of Georgia

Georgia 4-H President Robert Thomas addressed those in attendance on behalf of the 201,000 4-H’ers currently enrolled in Georgia 4-H.

“Through 4-H, I discovered my spark. I found a passion for healthy living, for the science behind food sustainability, and for the connections built through events where I could truly engage with my peers,” Thomas said. “On behalf of the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, UGA Cooperative Extension and 4-H’ers across our state, thank you for believing in us. Thank you for investing in us.”

Biersmith and Nick T. Place, dean and director of UGA’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, thanked legislators and recognized the importance of 4-H for youth in Georgia.

Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation invests in Georgia 4-H’ers by providing support for transportation, logistics and lunch during 4-H Day at the Capitol. The event, which is often the first visit to Atlanta for many students, makes a lifelong impression on those who attend. Youth are empowered to become leaders of the future through their engagement with current elected officials.

As the premier youth leadership organization in the state, 4-H reaches hundreds of thousands of people annually through UGA Extension offices and 4-H facilities. For more information about how to get involved with 4-H in your community, contact your local UGA Extension office or visit georgia4h.org.